Unwired goes to the movies

Unwired has partnered with ReelTime Media to provide current release movies to its subscribers via a set top box.

The wireless ISP will allow subscribers to download movies provided by ReelTime, an ASX-listed movies and TV content provider. Unwired subscribers are required to purchase a ReelTime set top box for their TV or software for their computer.

ReelTime managing director, John Karantzis said the company was seeking ISP partners because of Telstra’s charges.

“We are seeking partnerships with independent ISPs because we don’t want to be lumped with a $27.70 monthly fee from Telstra,” he said.

Karantzis claims Unwired’s network speed for downloading movies was not an issue for its ‘push system’.

“New release movies are already in the box. Users can request movies of their choice, but they will have to wait overnight for it to be downloaded,” said Karantzis.

The two companies will share revenue from sales of the ReelTime service and work together on co-marketing and product pricing. The movie service will be available to Unwired’s customers in October.

Karantzis said the partnership wasn’t exclusive and it was also in negotiations with the four other ISPs to make similar deals.

ReelTime sources movies from Sony Pictures, TriStar, Columbia, MGM, Palace Film, Granada, Icon Entertainment and other studio partners.